It's Worse than you Think

Westchester Community College is one of the few colleges in the country that the Pulitizer Center has a partnership. Each year there is a group of students that are graced with a couple journalist from the center. From this, the student's get an in-depth look at projects the Pulitzer Center is sponsoring.

This year Steve Sapienza and Mika Fink came to the WCC campus to discuss their work, and dedicated a significant amount of time shedding light on homophobia in Jamaica.

The students were stimulated and motivated by their presentation.

THE RISE OF THE SNEAKER MARKET FINAL BLOG PORJECT

THIS VIDEO WAS MADE TO SHOW WHY PEOPLE LOVE THEIR SNEAKERS AND ARE WILLING TO SPEND AS MUCH AS THEY DO ON THEIR FEET. THE SNEAKER MARKET HAS BEEN RISING AND STILL GOING SINCE THE 2000's and onhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ih_1wpVFRgo

Changing Our Views Of The World, One Camera Angle At A Time.

Steven Sapienza and Micah Fink have been able to provide America with stories from all over the world that we are unable to see in our every day lives. They both have worked hard to shed light on different areas of life, helping us understand the problem, showing us solutions, and proving the importance of giving us this knowledge. Steven Sapienza has provided award-winning work for Hiv/Aids awareness, while Micah Fink has shown how difficult the lives of many are affected by homophobia in Jamaica. Both are an inspiration to many and continue to work to bring awareness of life into the homes of America.

Video games: The first steps in a new sport

Games are more popular than ever in the world. They out sell and out profit Nearly all other forms of entertainment. They've helped raise and entire generation of young adults, myself included. Now we see the emergence of E-sports or professional competitive gaming. These players can earn 6 figure salaries and even more in prize money. 

Recently one game in particular has risen above the rest in terms of mass appeal, that game is League of Legends.

League of legends or LoL, is a team based game where two teams of five players each duke it out with each other, while trying to destroy objectives and, ultimately, the other teams base. In October of this year they held their Season 3 World Championship at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. 

Not only did they sell out the entire venue, in less than 20 minutes mind you, but they also attracted over 35 million viewers online. That's nearly twice as many people that watched any game in the last MLB world series. So video games as a sport, definitely an idea that I could get behind, but I was curious about others.

And it's not only the hardcore gamers who believe this. Chris Kluwe, a pro Football player for the Minnesota Vikings, is a vocal advocate for E-sports and the potential they have in the future.

If you want to learn more about the basics of league of legends check this video or stop by their website, www.Leagueoflegends.com

A Perception on Journalism Through the Lens of Two Award-Winning Producers

What does journalism entail anyways? Journalism is more than just gathering news and information for mass dissemination. It's information is framed in a way that people can relate to them. The award-winning producer and director, Micah Fink explains that documentary films represent a threat to journalism because of observational films. These films are told from the perspective of characters, often called character-driven. In addition, another award-winning producer, Steve Sapienza mentions the amount of time it takes to shoot and produce stories from the field.

If you want to find out more information on these admiring award-winning producers, visit the following links:

• Micah Fink Pulitzer Center
• Steve Sapienza Pulitzer Center

Give Your Eyes That Touch

This is an unusual way to improve your vision rather if you wear glasses  or not you would want to see this simple technique to better your vision.

To learn more about the massages and Robert Chuckrow click this link.
To learn about more places to improve your vision click Suny Opt

Taking Over the World One Party at a Time

Major Lazer is an electronic dancehall DJ project created by American DJ/producer Diplo. Formerly a collaboration along with DJ/producer Switch. Diplo has since enlisted producers/DJs Jillionaire and Walshy Fire (of Black Chiney) to help with the production and live shows.They're constantly looking for ways to reinvent themselves in the how-have-you-impressed-me-lately world they inhabit. The group is blending influences like soca, pop, reggae, and dancehall music from Jamaica with hip-hop dynamics and a DJ's light show.Whether it's dancehall, trap or any number of the many interpolations of cultures and sounds, the group maintains that it's authenticity and artistic maturity that make everything come together.


Check out their internationally successful song here.


More about Walshy Fire

A Professor's Perspective on Modern Education

College is a much different institution than it was decades ago. From my perspective as a student it is quite clear that many students don't exactly make productive use of their time here, as participation is quite low during classes, and overall there are many students who just don't seem interested in learning. Many people seem to go and get out, maybe it's because it's not as much about learning for them as it is about simply doing enough to get the grade and, eventually, the degree. Well, this is at least how I see it at the Community College that I attend. I could be wrong in regards to other schools, and I hope I am, but I don't have a frame of reference for that.

It led me to wonder how a teacher feels about the situation, so I interviewed Lori Maida, a Sociology Professor at Westchester Community College, whose course (Intro to Sociology) I took during this past Fall 2013 semester and whom I developed a rapport with. As a Professor she was enthusiastic about what she taught and encouraged participation through discussing the topics we learned about. I spoke to her in order to gain insight into the state of modern education and what is happening to it from the perspective of a modern teacher.

Crisis Reporting in Jamaica

    Steve Sapienza and Micah Fink are journalist who have worked with the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting to shed light on under reported issues in our world. They visited Westchester Community College to share their experiences and present their work. This presentation dealt with the issue of homophobia and the AIDs epidemic in the Caribbean. Micah Fink also gave a special screening of his full length documentary, The Abominable Crime. Below is a video of their presentation, including student reactions, and highlights from Steve's work on a project called, Live Hope Love. 

NFL is too expensive

       I interviewed Daniel Johnson, A former professor at Manhattan College. We discussed how the price of NFL tickets are rising every year, and how he simply cant afford to go to games anymore. This is the case for many fans around the country. Here are the numbers to prove it.

GET INSPIRED!

I sat down with Wbff Pro Eillen Vent to talk to her about her journey throughout bodybuilding. Over the past year Eillen has participated in three shows winning her pro card in her most recent one. Not only is Eillen a Wbff pro she is also a mother of two! I have personally trained with Eillen and I must say I have never been more motivated. If anyone is interested in getting their butt kicked I would absolutely suggest having a training session with her!




For anyone else looking for new workout routines check out one of my favorite websites!

http://www.bodybuilding.com/

Award Winning Journalists Visit WCC

Students got to enjoy a very touching intro to a piece they did in Jamaica about HIV/Aids. If you would like to see it for yourself visit their website. http://www.livehopelove.com/

Two Young Guns in the NFL's Latest Arms Race

In 2012, rookie quarterback, Russell Wilson of the Seattle Seahawks, and second-year quarterback, Colin Kaepernick, established themselves as two of the NFL's best young quarterbacks taking both their teams to the playoffs. Kaepernick brought the 49ers to the brink of a Super Bowl title while Wilson nearly had the Seahawks in the NFC Championship, falling one game short in a loss to the Falcons. With both teams playing the NFC West, Kaepernick's 49ers and Wilson's Seahawks will play at least twice per year, fighting for the division title. With a division rivalry brewing, comparisons were bound to be made. I went to New York City to find out who the public thinks is the better young quarterback - the answer was overwhelmingly one-sided!

America's Violent Pasttime

Inspired by the scathing NFL documentary League of Denial, take an in-depth listen to the protocols and procedures required to properly prepare our children for the game of football.  From the NFL on down, all levels of football have implemented new coaching techniques and new sets of penalties to make the field a safer place to play.  Parents have to decide wether to allow their child to play this fast paced, often violent game.  Each individual must weigh the pros and cons in order to decide if their child should play.

Additional credit: Anthony Visci

Pulitzer Journalists visit WCC

Annually Westchester Community College invites two Pulitzer journalists to speak about their profession and for them to present their work. Steve Sapienza and Micah Fink are two established producers, who's documentaries are gripping and eye opening , were invited to share they're work on AIDS in the Caribbean.

Two Award Winning Journalists Visit WCC to tell their story

The students were able to see their experiences in journalism and hear their thoughts about how global warming effects the world.

Pulitzer Questions

Steve Sapienza:

• When did your love of human exploration first begin
• What has drawn you to focus on more global issues rather than domestic 
• What did it mean to you and your career to win multiple CINE Golden Eagles
• Where did the inspiration for Live Hope Love come from
• What was it like to work with heavyweights like Fareed Zakaria
• Did your time spent at Azimuth media allow you to hone your skills as an eventual multiple award winning producer

Micah Fink:

• When did you first realize you wanted to mainly profile environmental changes and issues
• What was it like to produce for former Vice President Al Gore
• Where did the idea for Common Good Productions stem from 
• Do you believe your previous affiliations have given you a diverse style when approaching new projects
• Has your numerous awards and honors in the past allowed you to branch out a bit more with your content than you would have otherwise  
• What is the one common element in all of your films that you want the viewer to come away with

Pulitzer Questions

Steve Sapienza Questions

11)   Covering so many stories in global hotspots, was there any time that you felt your safety was in jeopardy, and if so, why?

22)   “Easy Like Water” presents an interesting idea. What was it like working on that project? Do you think the ideas presented can be sustainable in the long-run, why or why not?

33)   What draws you to cover a certain topic or event?

Micah Fink Questions

11)   A lot of your work is about the environment. That said, is environmental protection a cause you feel strongly about, and if so, why?

22)   Have any projects you worked on in the past shaped what projects you work on now and plan to pursue in the future? If so, which ones and why?

33)   Throughout your career, what was the most memorable project you’ve worked on? Why?

Pulitzer Questions

Questions for Micah Fink:
1. It is no surprise that homophobia is a human rights issue in Jamaica, but what else does the documentary, Abominable Crime elucidate rather than just homophobia and violence?
2. While filming the documentaries, what are some of the risks or challenges that you had to face?
3. How did you react and what did you think about the majority of opinions and reactions towards the homophobia issue in Jamaica?
4. From the documentaries that you have filmed, do you think that justice can ever be truly served?

Questions for Steve Sapienza:
1. While exploring the HIV crisis in Haiti, Dominican Republic, and Jamaica, what were some of the interesting research that surprised you? What were some of the differences you found out about in each country?
2. How did you become the chief cinematographer for the independent documentary feature, Easy Like Water? What was the experience like?
3. Having written and produced 45 documentaries on diverse topics, how do you feel about gaining further knowledge about other countries? How has that influenced your life?

Pulitzer Questions

Steve Sapienza

1. How much preliminary work goes in to choosing a subject and location?
2. What draws you to topic you want to cover and do you purposely choose variety of locations and subjects?
3. How does your equipment change depending on location?

Micah Fink

1. How do you shed new light on a commonly reported issue?
2. Is it difficult to get your subjects to open up when talking about sensitive issues?
3. Whats the most powerful image you've ever captured?

Pulitzer Questions - This is what Everyone wants to know!

Steve Sapienza
1. Prior to working in the field, did you watch a lot of documentaries?

2. What made you decide to use this medium to express yourself?

3. To what extent do you try to incorporate things to please the audience as you work - if at all?


Micah Fink

1. When did you start to feel that you needed to shed light on environmental issues?

2. Is there one person that you look up to, or inspires you, in regard to the environment?

3. If you could change one thing in this world - what would it be - and why?

Pulitzer Questions

Steve Sapienza

1. How did you get started in your field of work? What interested you?

2. Which project touched you the most?

3. What does the future hold for you? Whats your next project?


Micah Fink

1. What interests you most about environmental issues?

2. What do you want people to know about environmental issues?

3. If you could partner up with any other producer who would it be and why?

Jeneva Taylor



 How long did you go to school for filming before you became successful?
What inspired you to do documentary films instead of regular shows or movies?
What are the advantages of doing documentaries instead of commercial films?


For Steve Sapienza:
1. Have more people gotten involved since you have broaden the issue to a larger audience?
2. What made you want to address such a serious issue like HIV since this is a subject most people try to ignore?
3.How did making experience affect your perception after leaving Jamaica?
4. how did you go about finding the poems on your website, are they from those how are suffering with HIV?
5.Has religion and hope kept their environment positive?


For Micah Fink:
1. Did you come across confrontation addressing gay rights in Jamaica?
2. Are there any laws being passed now to help stop the violence done on homosexuals?
3. for the climate changes, was it dangerous capturing footage of floods and storms?
4.How are families evacuating from these areas where roads are flooded are there helicopters or are they stranded?

Pulitzer Questions

Micah Fink:

1.      Out of all the things to choose from what made you to deiced to focus on environmental issues?   

2. What are the current effects on global warming today?

3. What is the new teacher survival series about?    

Steve Sapienza

1. Why do Children in Sierra Leone become soldiers at such young ages? 

2. What kind of stories do you contribute to the PBS news hour?

3. What kind of stories did you shoot and produced for broadcast television and online distribution for over 15 years?  

Pulitzer Questions

Steve Sapienza
1. Where was your favorite location to film?
2. How do you decide that you want to film this particular issue?
3. How did you find out about the status of Haitians in DR?

Micah Fink
1. What's your favorite type of documentary
2.Why did you get into the field?
3. Whats your favorite documentary of all time?

Pulitzer Questions

Steven Sapienza

1. How do you decide which projects you want to work on?

2. Do you feel that there needs to be more public discussion on the issues presented in the projects you have worked on?

3. Has there been a personal impact from working on these projects which depict people in such encumbering circumstances?

Mica Fink

1. What have you learned about climate change and the future of our society from working on the "Cost Of Carbon" series?

2."24 Hours of Reality" used twitter and other social media as a tool for spreading the message of climate change. How large of an impact have you witnessed social media have on journalism?

3. Corporations dumping toxic waste is something that occurs daily around the world. Why do you think there isn't more coverage on this issue?

For Both

1. Why does the mainstream media choose not to provide coverage on important issues such as these?

2. Are you content with the way mainstream media covers stories or are you more supportive of alternative media sources?

PULITZER CENTER CAMPUS CONSORTIUM VISIT ASSIGNMENT: DUE 11/21/13

1) Check out the links and work of the two journalists from the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting who will be in class with us on Thursday:

n  *Award-winning news and documentary producer Steve Sapienza

n  *Award-winning producer, director and writer Micah Fink

2) Come up with at least 3 questions for each of them and be prepared to ask them on Thursday: a good question will relate directly to their work. Apply what we've learned about interviewing to your questions.

 
3) Post a blog entry with your questions by Thursday's class meeting. USE THIS LABEL: PULITZER QUESTIONS


4) Come prepared and ready to be engaged. ATTENDANCE IS MANDATORY

The love of the game

I sat down with my fellow classmate Gaspar Cruz to talk to him about his love for basketball. At a very young age Gaspar started playing basketball, with basketball being around in his family for years he grew to love the sport. One of Gaspar's favorite teams in the NBA is the New York Knicks.





To learn more about the New York Knicks and how their season is starting off..

A hardcore New Orleans Saints fan From Connecticut

Here is a taste of the New Orleans Saints  

A Book Lover in the Digital Age

Teresa Lulgjuraj has a love of books that is uncommon in todays fast-paced age of technology

The world of literature has so many facets, its no wonder so many people find ways to lose themselves.  Authors like Shel Silverstein speak directly to these wondering souls, and form impressions that can last a life time.

"Did you get my thoughts?" One man's passion for news & it's future.

Nicholas Girodano brings us into the world of News and shares his ideas on how media can continue to change.



To get a little taste of Nick's passion, visit his favorite news site.

A New Era of Clothing Design.. Caked Up Clothing

Caesar Tejada is a man on a mission when it comes to achieving his dream of designing his own clothing line..
When considering a future in fashion design, there are many things to consider, such as the future of the industry, if it's the right field for you, and what is necessary to get you there. Caesar Tejada knows its where he wants to be!

Branden on Crack

Crack the Drug is bringing people to new highs all over America - conversely, Crack the Skye is bringing people to the depths of a philosophical music that otherwise wouldn't be known. Passionate metal music consumers like Branden Sherman conveys the deep meaning intertwined within this genre.




If you're intrigued by Brenden's fascination, explore your own potential love for Mastodon at their website.

Rock on, and enjoy!

One girl's passion for Bachata and Merengue

I got a chance to sit down with Katherine Chunchi to discuss with her her love for her cultures music, Bachata and Merengue. She's very proactive in her community and discusses how the music itself has influenced her.

For more information on this kind of dance check out the history of Bachata and Merengue in the Dominican Republic as well as the music that accompanies this interview below.

Bridging the Gap Between Jamaican Music and its Culture

How has music and culture influenced your life? Jamaican music portrays Kadejah Howell's individuality and nationality all in one jar. She elucidates the jamaican artists that have influenced her life and gives her opinion on the crossover into American culture as listeners recite lyrics without fully understanding. If you'd like to learn more about Jamaican music and Kadejah's favorite artist, Tarrus Riley, you can visit the links below.

• The history of Jamaican music
• Jamaican music at it's finest
• Tarrus Riley - One of the most promising artists of the second generation of Jamaican roots.

MMJ Terry's Driving School

Science Fiction's Future Author

Josh Simon tells his interest in writing complex Sci-fi stories...

Why are sci-fi stories becoming so popular to our world? Click on the alien to find out why!

For additional information about science fiction click this link.

School or Work? Kevin Dushold Embarks On A Journey To Find His Answer

If you are wondering whether or not it is better to go to college or go directly to full time work after high school, Kevin Dushold tells us his tale and where it has led him. He gives us his perspective, what he has learned in his experience, and gives advice to those questioning themselves in this area of their lives. For more advice on whether or not to take time off after high school.

Healthy Living

Being active is a vital part of living a healthy life, Gina's Gym is state of the art, with ravishing machinery and activities that will set you up for the journey of a healthy life.

Future International Soccer Star

Manny dreams of someday becoming a soccer star.

For more information on Real Madrid click here.

You have a tattoo WHERE?!

Maggie Griswold worked at at a tattoo convention and had an interesting experience to say the least.

She met all sorts of people when she worked the information booth that weekend. Most of these people had tattoos all over their bodies.

A children's musician is born

I spoke with Janeva Taylor about her beginnings in music and how she got started writing music for children.


For some other children's Musicians, while we wait for Jeneva's big break, take a look at Time Out New York's 25 best bands for kids

A Fan's Feelings on METALLICA

   Who is YOUR favorite band? Andy Wallach LOVES the band, Metallica. He sat down with me to talk everything METALLICA! This classic heavy metal band is very popular, and he discusses everything from his favorite song, to his most memorable concert moments. If you'd like to learn more about Metallica you can visit the band's website, where they include media, news, and tour dates.

How Major Lazer changed EDM

Based heavily in Caribbean culture Major Lazer offers a dance party that's a bit more specific than its fist-pumping counterparts.
 "The house music thing exploded two years and now people are looking for something different. ... What we do as Major Lazer, we just incorporate everything. We're just DJs at heart and selectors. We love all kinds of music."

They're constantly looking for ways to reinvent themselves in the how-have-you-impressed-me-lately world they inhabit. Diplo has created some of the most memorable moments in the movement and pop music in general, but he's keenly aware of the tradewinds that can carry you away from the hot molten core of EDM. It's easy to get complacent when you spend your days and nights in front of a computer programming beats.

"Dance music is so interchangeable," Diplo bristled. "There's not a lot of face to it. It's a bunch of Dutch DJs with the same haircut. You go see a dance stage at a fucking dance festival and I'm bored out of my fucking mind. That's not going to last very much longer, because kids see that it's the same shit every single time.

Leacock says the group is blending influences like soca pop music from Trinidad & Tobago and reggae dancehall music from Jamaica with hip-hop dynamics and a DJ's light show.

"There's so much saturation right now in the market," Leacock said. "So you have to put a package out there that makes them say, 'Oh, that really blew my mind."'

Whether it's dancehall, trap or any number of the many interpolations of cultures and sounds that his army of super young artists produce, Diplo maintains that it's authenticity and artistic maturity that make everything come together.

interviewing terrance MMJ Assingment # 3

 interview questions: 1.What first got into driving?
2.What was your first car?
3.Do you see yourself having a career in driving?
4.Do you ever get tired of driving?
5.Does your job now require you to drive and do you think it can delvelop to a career with automotives?
6.Have you ever had a moment at work when you thought you were about to die?
7.How would you describe a good day at work?

TL

Why do you want to be a journalist?

Who is your most influential person in jounalism?

What do you believe you can bring to the table?

Do you believe the newsmedia has changed in the past ten years?

How do you think the news should be?

What is one of the best articles you've read recently?

If you could work anywhere, where would it be & why?

How do you think media will change ten years from now?

The Interview with one Branden Sherman

1. What is your favorite album?

2. What is this album about?

3. How often do you listen to the album?

4. What types of activities do you enjoy most while listening to the album?

5. Do you have a favorite song?

6. Why do you consider this your favorite album?

7. Does this album make you feel a certain way?

8. How is it different than other albums you enjoy?

9. Why does this (your favorite album) stimulate you?

10. When were you first introduced to the album?

11. How has your perspective of the album changed since then?

12. Has this album changed you as a person - e.g. your perspectives, the way you engage with others?

13. Do you believe this album can be universally recognized as great?

14. To what type of person would you recommend this album?

15. Are there others like it, or is it one of a kind?

MMJ Assignment #3

What is your ultimate goal in life?

How did you get into writing music?

What types of music do you write?

Why do you want to write Childrens music specifically?

What are some of the things you do to inspire you to compose?

What is your process once you have an idea in mind?

What do you do once you've finished a song?

How do you go about pitching a song to a record studio?

What would you do if you got several of your songs sold? How would it affect your life?

NG

Where did your immense love of books come from? and in particular what drew you more towards novels and literature?

Do you enjoy ANY non-fiction, or do you keep it strictly to fictional works?

How many books would you say you read in the course of a year?
 
Did your parents encourage you to do more reading during your childhood?

You've mentioned your propensity to read more "obscure" novels  where did this practice come from?

What connection, if any, do you find between your love of books and your enjoyment of documentaries?

If you could only watch documentaries or read books for the rest of your life which would you choose?]
Why?

If you could choose one novel to represent you as a person, which would it be?

Interviewing Gaspar

1. Did you play basketball in high school?
2. What position did you play?
3. Who is your favorite team?
4. Who do you idolize in the MBA, why?
5. What is it about basketball that makes you love the sport?
6. Have you had any injuries?
7. Did you win any awards or metals?
8. Does anyone in your family play?
9. How old were you when you first started playing?
10. Would you be interested in playing again?

Interviewing Gina

When did you get into working out?

How did you get into working out?

Why do you like working out?

What type of working out are you into?

Whats your favorite work out music?

Why does this motivate you?

Is anyone in your family into working out?

Do you have any funny gym stories?

How many times a week do you work out?

Why would you recommend working out?

Interviewing Caeser

Interview Questions

1) You're interested in introducing a clothing line?
2) Does your clothing line have a name yet?
3) What lead to your interest in producing a line of clothes?
4) Is there anyone that influenced your decision to go into clothing design?
5) Do you have an idea of what kinds of clothes you're going to produce? Shirts? Pants? Hoodies?
6) Is there any designer you've drawn inspiration from who we can see parts of their designs in your own?
7) Can we expect to see any of your designs in stores soon?

Interviewing Kevin

1. Did you go straight from High School to College?
2. How long was the break between?
3. What was the reason for not going directly from High School to College?
4. What did you do during your time in between?
5. What kind of work did you do?
6. Did you enjoy your time in between?
7. How did you end up going back to school?
8. Do you wish you had gone directly to college?
9. Do you plan on continuing with your previous career after College?
10. Would you advise people to go directly to College after High School?

Interviewing Kadejah...

Topic: Meshing music & Culture

Questions:

How does music and culture influence your life?

*In Jamaica, politics and everyday living are centered around music

Growing up in an immigrant household

Relatives in music musicians *Dad was dj

Led her to change her field in pr (publicity) because she felt that Jamaican or reggae were missing in the mainstream market

What are the stereotypes toward Jamaican music? How can you reflect? How does the world view it? Now, its popular, how do you feel modern music has pushed reggae to another level?

Mixing it with Spanish & hip hop

Reggae (cultural umbrella) (Dancehall (comes from it)

People sing about their trials, triumphs, inequalities, and suffering in the country

What is your favorite Jamaican artist? Why?

Tarrus Rilly (considered cultural artist & not typical dancehall) love & conscious living songs fits in reggae & dancehall genre

How do you feel about the language barrier and dialect in the songs? 

Are there artists that have crossed the mainstream media?

Interviewing Mike

Questions:
do you play football?
why not?
do you watch football on television?
who is your favorite team?
Being a Giants fan how do you feel about this season?
what do you think the reason is for this 0-5 start?
who do you blame for this season and why?
are you going to continue watching the games?

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Interviewing Manny

Questions: What made you want to play soccer as a young kid?
Who inspired you to play soccer?
Who's your favorite team right now?
Do you ever think soccer will be bigger than football one day?
Do you see yourself being a professional soccer player?
Are you playing soccer right now?

Interviewing Katherine Chunchi...

Interviewing Katherine Chunchi on..

BACHATA AND MERENGUE  

WHAT GENRE OF MUSIC DO YOU PREFER TO DANCE TO ?

HOW DID YOU GET YOUR START IN DANCING?

WHO INTRODUCED YOU?

DID YOU TAKE ANY CLASSES?

HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM OTHER FORMS OF DANCING?

HOW EASY DO YOU FIND IT TO LEARN OR TEACH OTHER PEOPLE?

HOW DO YOU DANCE "BACHATA" EXACTLY? ARE THERE ANY TECHNICAL MOVEMENTS?

WHAT DO YOU DO WITH YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF DANCE? HOW DO YOU INCORPORATE THAT OUTSIDE OF CLASSES AND SOCIALS?

HOW DOES IT CONTRIBUTE TO YOUR EVERYDAY LIFE? 

MMJ Assignment #3: Interview Questions

•IN-CLASS INTERVIEWING EXERCISE

•PAIR UP WITH FELLOW STUDENT TO INTERVIEW EACH OTHER

•DECIDE ON TOPICS (can be anything)

•PREPARE A LIST OF 5-10 QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR SUBJECT – POST ON BLOG!

•RECORD THE INTERVIEWS NEXT CLASS

•EACH STUDENT WILL EDIT AN AUDIO PIECE ABOUT YOUR SUBJECT TO SHARE WITH THE CLASS

POST LABEL = MMJ Assignment #3: Interview Questions

MMJ assignment # 2

What:Sneaker Market on the rise
Who: Nike, and consumers around the world
Where:Global
Why:People across the world are going crazy over the newest nike products willing to stay on line for a day to a week waiting on a release of sneakers, and sneakers even going for over 30,000$ as you can see on this link;  Sneaker Link
When: Every month there's a new sneaker coming out being released some years special releases some just regular sneakers.
So what: You might have some old sneakers in the back of your closet without knowing that they might be worth some money or more valuable  than you think.

Texting and driving

               

A man texts I need to quit texting before driving off cliff

A college student named Chance from Texas was texting and driving. He was texting I need to quit texting and driving when his truck flew off of a cliff. After the crash, Chance had a broken neck, a crushed face, a fractured skull, and traumatic brain injuries. Doctors had to bring him back to life three times. Now, 6 months later, he's finally able to talk about what happened. This happened August 2 2012 in Huntsville Alabama. The reasons why it happened because he was not focused on one task and was texting while driving.  

I’m sure we all can relate to this article because here in New York there have been similar accidents like this one. I really find this interesting that In Alabama someone can almost kill themselves and or others by texting and driving, and only have to pay a $25 fine. But here in New York you get 5 points on your license and a $150 fine plus a $50 surcharge a total of $200.   

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

Pepsi at the Super Bowl

The first cold weather, open air stadium Super Bowl will be played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey this February. This has been dubbed the first mass transit Super Bowl, with many fans traveling from New York City to the stadium via the NJ Transit. In response to this, PepsiCo has spent 1.1 million dollars to advertise in New Jersey stations, with the contract expiring February 3rd, 2014, the day after the Super Bowl.

WHO: PepsiCo/NJ Transit/NFL

WHAT: Spending 1.1 Million Dollars in Advertising

WHEN: Leading up the Super Bowl (potentially in the playoffs) through February 3rd, 2014

WHERE: Mass transit stations en route to MetLife Stadium

WHY: The Super Bowl is the biggest sporting event year after year. This is a great advertising opportunity for PepsiCo

SO WHAT: People that enjoy soda and football will care about this


http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2013/09/super_cola_xlviii_pepsi_pays_nj_transit_11_m_to_adorn_stations_trains_with_advertising.html

Assignment #2

Last Sunday the Emmys were filled with surprises and upsets. Everyone knows the results of the Emmys but how does the academy decide who will be nominated and receive these awards. The process is so convoluted that many members of the industry don't even understand how it works. Fans often don't understand how a favorite show could not win the award they think they deserve.  This story would explore how Emmy voting is conducted to learn how these upsets happen. 

Who: The Academy of Arts and Science 

What: How Emmy voting works.

Where: Hollywood

When: Sunday, September 22, 2013

Why: To better understand how these actors and directors are recognized for their work.

So what: The fans may want to know how the awards are decided especially when a they were rooting for a specific show to win.

The Rules for Voting

An Explanation of the Process

The Voting Timeline

What the hell is "The League of Legends"???

So a few years ago a friend of mine sent me a link to a new computer game that was just coming out called "League of Legends". It's a multi-player game where two teams of five players square off against each other on map with several towers defending a pair bases. The objective is to destroy these towers and ultimately destroy the enemy base while your opponent tries to do the same to you.

Now recently This game has become extremely popular with gamers and highly competitive, playing in the quarter final and beyond gets you access to a 5 million dollar pot. The League of legends world championships are happening in L.A. at the moment, with the semi finals this Friday and Saturday and the finals next Friday.

The championship series is being streamed online, on youtube, twitch.tv, A video game streaming website and several others and its being run like it were any other major sports broadcast, with analysts, commentators and announcers to cover the matches in real time. but it wasn't like this a few years ago when it was first coming on to the scene.

I want to take a look at how the rise of league of legends has changed the way its been covered and how its going to change how other esports are covered, and even how its drawing in viewers who aren't even specifically gamers.

MMJ Assignment #2

What: Austrailian tent trainer shoes make the fashion list
Who created it: Australian design firm sibling
Who is it for: It is created for all consumers, but it most likely benefits those consumers who enjoy outdoor activites, specifically for those who enjoy camping sites.
Where: Australia
Why: The shoes are built as a walking shelter (hi-top running shoes with an attached tent) that expands out around the human body, which relies on it for a supporting structure. It works for picnics and 'lie-down' occasions so that instead of carrying a heavy bag tent, your shoes and body can instantly provide you that comfort zone and satisfaction.
So what: Although this fashionista innovative design is not the most fine-drawn thing out there, its walking shelter helps you settle down the way you want to and hey, some people like and long to become hidden to the world so that they could be at peace. What other way to accomplish that than with these tent trainers?!

The Potential of Ayahuasca

The Potential of Ayahuasca

What – Ayahuasca. A brew made in the Amazon, whose active ingredient is Dimethyltryptamine (DMT), which is used for healing and cleansing the mind, body, and spirit. Also known as the Vine of Souls and Vine of Death. DMT is the most potent psychedelic that we know of and is found virtually everywhere in nature, at least in trace amounts.

Who – People interested in psychedelics, altered states of consciousness, and alternative forms of therapy/rehabilitation. Ayahuasca is not recreational. 

Where – Amazon, South America. Around the world.

When – Now. Past, Present, Future.

Why – Ayahuasca has been being used in the Amazon for thousands of years as a healing agent used for cleansing, self-discovery, and transformation. 

So What – If this could be accessible here in the US, and be used in responsible way, ayahuasca has the potential to help addicts overcome their addiction, help people to resolve and come to terms with past trauma, and help people to work on bettering themselves as humans beings. 

Article on ayahusca and drug rehabilitation in Canada 

Graham Hancock discusses the effects of ayahuasca

Female bodybuilding

Over the two years once thing I noticed that has become very popular is female bodybuilding. Recently I have seen many girls my age compete in bodybuilding competitions. Fitness has almost become a " trend" to some people. At first I was skeptical about girls who trained for those competitions but after doing research and speaking to girls about it my outlook has changed. Some people think women should not lift and train like a man but after listening to these women speak about their goals they have achieved I understand why it has become so popular.

What's all this about a shutdown?!

What: The possible Government shutdown
Who: Congress
Where: Washington DC
When: As we speak
Why: There are ongoing debates about this new Obamacare bill that has much of the country and congress divided.
So what: A government shutdown isn't exactally the best thing to happen for the government. Just think about it, when you hear the words "government shutdown", it doesnt sound like a good thing. Now although it hasn't offically happened yet, it could happen in less than a week (as soon as september 30th to be exact). It seems that these days the american people as well as congress are more divided on many issues than ever before. This is actually very bad in reality because other nations such as syria may think that we are in a state of dissaray and can be an easy target.

source
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/wonkblog/wp/2013/09/24/everything-you-need-to-know-about-a-government-shutdown/

MMJ ASSIGNMENT # 2

What: Scientists Build first nanotube computer
Who: Anyone who likes electronics
When: September
Where: Stanford University
Why: Improved technology built from carbon nanotube transistors.
So What: All electronics can become smaller, faster, and more powerful. If perfected, this would allow a computer to work faster, and with smaller components and with about one-tenth energy.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702304795804579097201829598522.html

Spray-on Fabric Revolution

Who? Fabrican

What? Spray-on fabric technology that can instantly make clothing, bandages, furniture, etc.

When? Invented in 2000

Where? Invented in London

Why? Originally for fashion purposes, but with minor tinkering could revolutionize the 21st Century

So What? Since the fabric comes straight from a can, its sterile and could be a medical marvel. Spray furniture that isn't flammable. Seemingly inexpensive. Could clean up oil spills. Possibilities are endless

The Affordable Care Act

What: Obamacare (The Affordable Care Act) and how it affects everyday life for average Americans

Who: US Senate

When: October

Where: US Capitol

Why: AFA will implement universal health care throughout the US
So What: This literally affects every person living in the United States.  will their premiums go up?  will they be able to keep their own doctors?  What is the overall cost to the tax payer?  What will be the reaction to this legislation?

http://www.politico.com/story/2013/09/senate-spending-bill-vote-97335.html?hp=l1

Instagram.. the New Fashion Frontier

Ruth La Fuerla’s article in the New York Times examines how the social media app, Instagram, has become a staple in the Fashion Week tradition. La Fuerla speaks candidly about how the app has affected and contributed to not only New York Fashion Week but also the world of fashion at large.

Incase you’ve been living under a rock, Instagram is a platform much like Twitter in which a person can showcase their lives through pictures. Acquired by Facebook nearly a year ago, it has now become the world’s most used social app, gaining a measurable edge over YouTube, Pinterest, Tumblr and even its parent company.  The fashion industry has used that fact as a way to market themselves in a way they never had before. Naturally, the fashion industry and its designers have always had creative control but with the help of Instagram, they can now use it as an image bank, a research tool, a showcase for their wares and now, most compellingly, a route into consumers’ heads. Designer Jason Wu is a self-professed Instagram addict. He says “Imagery is such a big part of how we get inspired,”.

   

Kate Seward:12 a.m., Friday #Streetstyle outside the @HONORWoman show. #nyfw #nytfashion @Hipstamatic #hipstamatic

In the broadest sense, Instagram functions as a crowd-friendly extension of the traditional trunk show, in which clients could order variations on a design. The newspaper demonstrated its point by using the print format to inform readers of the influence Instagram has given to designers and its counterparts. Instead of video or audio, the journalist takes advantage of the fact that they are writing about a picture app and uses pictures to drive her points home.

Innovation is the motto for London Fashion Week

              

Don't you just love getting an inside scoop of what’s “in” and what’s “out” of the season?. For all you fashionistas out there, although September is coming to an end, it is still here! This is by far, the most important month for fashion week because last week, you did not only see New York, London, Milan, and Paris showcase the spring and summer fashion collections, but you, my fashionista friend hopefully became part of this adrenaline. Aside from New York, Milan, and Paris, London is also known for its fashion phenomenon so for all you Londoners out there, the excitement for London Fashion Week (LFW) must have been "a good girl gone bad" experience, right?! Certainly, LFW always gives its best in British fashion, but every year, the British FashionCouncil (BFC) is on a mission to continue improving this admiring reputation. Overall, they want to create a unique experience that allows customers and fans to become part of global fashion trends.

Innovation is essential to promote success within an industry, particularly the fashion industry. According to a BBC news article, the Chief executive of the BFC, Caroline Rush informs the audience that for the first time this year, they gathered with Oxford Street along with countless flags to celebrate the fashion streets. Of course, with London’s eclectic design continuing to rise, they extended LFW to London Fashion Weekend and invited Londoners to expose their unique fashion styles. As we all know, the social media played and continues playing a significant role to LFW because the blogging, the Twitter feeds, the Instagram pictures, hashtags, and videos promoted such enthusiasm and it was the main thing that was talked about during that week.

During early February of this year, British multinational fashion brands such as, Topshop fulfilled LFW's goal of providing us with an innovative experience first. Aside from September, February is also considered an important month in fashion week because it showcases the fall and winter collections of the season. For this year, it showcased the 2013 fall and winter fashion celebration.

The fashion news article, Topshop Partners with Google for LFW Show uses three multimedia components, which include print, video, and interactive elements to address the innovation behind LFW.  Overall, the print section focuses on Google’s innovative and accessible creation with Topshop that introduces a “state-of-the-art” camera also known as a model camera, which gives us the opportunity to watch the 2013 fall and winter collection and other upcoming collections from either a model or make-up artist’s perspective. This section also includes a quote from the Google+ global marketing director, Marvin Chow who informs the audience about how excited he is of bringing this experience to fans. Chow acknowledges that partnering with Topshop brings the best of both worlds because with the Google technology and the help of the models and designers, they are able to create an unimaginable experience.

The print section informs us of who wears the model camera, how is it worn, and where is it set. In addition, it emphasizes the innovative process behind this experience by allowing people to not only watch the live catwalk fixtures on Topshop’s YouTube channel, but on Google+ page too. As any other innovative creation, the last part of the print section reveals that it is an economic benefit for both enterprises. An app called a “be the buyer app” allows all customers and fans to create their own fashion closet based on the catwalk collection. In addition, there is a “Google be the create” app video chat that gives a backstage view and provides a question and answer from the designers and its team.

The video section includes a catchy song called “Shake, Shake, Shake” by Bronze Radio Return, which to a great extent, promotes an unprecedented bliss to the video. A song that catches our attention is necessary to invite us in to this Google+ and Topshop community experience. Unlike the print section, Topshop reveals their extraordinary reputation for having 2 million live runway views in 100 countries. In addition, it shows us where the innovative home for LFW is located and how the model cam works. It also gives us directions on how to access the Topshop’s Inside-Out bloggers’ website so that we can encounter up-to-date blogs. On the website, the spring and summer collection is revealed along with the “designer themed deck chairs and chirp lined garden areas where guests are able to pickup [everything that is going on].”  You can also come across the 2014 spring and summer catwalk of last week's premier.

It is interesting to see that in just two minutes, the video reveals most of the 2013 fall and winter collection. More importantly, it shows the audience how to win tickets to see live upcoming runway shows, gives an insight of the G+ photo booth on Oxford Street, and access to watch celebrities, fashion editors, and bloggers on G+.

The interactive section provides the audience with a Twitter, Facebook, Google+, and comment section that allows fans to share it. While exploring the fashion news article, there were only three comments. One comment included information on the LFW after party, who hosted it, the price of the cocktail tickets, and what it included. As I kept exploring, I noticed that there was not an email section, which to some extent, impacts its social media aspect.

Overall, the print section gives the audience links and access to the Topshop’s website and their goal as a company, the LFW extravaganza, and the names of famously Topshop models such as, Cara Delevingne, Jouran Dunn, and Rosie Tapner. Although not in its entirety, it also provides the outline of Topshop and Google’s innovative process.